Abstract
There is increasing interest in the application of magnetic/electromagnetic fields for therapeutic purposes. Magnetotherapy provides non-invasive, safe and easy to apply methods to directly treat the site of injury, the source of pain and inflammation as well as other types of dysfunction. This review summarizes several decades of experience worldwide in studying biological and clinical effects initiated by various magnetic and electromagnetic fields. The physiological basis for tissue repair as well as physical principles of dosimetry and application of magnetic fields are discussed. An analysis of magnetic/electromagnetic stimulation is followed by a discussion of the advantage of magnetic field stimulation compared with electric current stimulation. Finally, the proposed mechanisms of action are discussed.